Through my lens: Cherish, challenge your voice

As I was getting ready to go back into work Thursday, I checked my phone and saw a text message from my sister that said, "No biggie, just saw DG."

I knew exactly what she was talking about. I felt my face burn up; I covered my mouth so I wouldn't scream and looked around to make sure no one saw my reaction. I was excited for her and resented her. A few minutes later, she sent me a blurry photo taken with her phone and my heart practically melted into a puddle. Filled with joy and jealousy, the only response I could come up with was a text message that didn't have any real words, just a series of random letters all capitalized.

She saw Dave Grohl's keynote speech at South by South West in Austin, Texas.

Grohl is the lead singer for the band Foo Fighters and former drummer of the legendary band Nirvana. He is also a member of Them Crooked Vultures, a super-group with Queens of the Stone Age front man Josh Homme and Led Zeppelin's John Paul Jones, and has collaborated with several other bands.

During his professional music career that now spans more than two decades, he's racked up a number of Grammys and quite a few other awards.

Most importantly, he was my ultimate middle school crush.

As a teenager, I loved him because of his music and generally goofy demeanor.

By all accounts, Grohl is a rock star and refers to himself as such, but never seems to take himself too seriously.

He is the first to make fun of himself, and the music videos for the Foo Fighters are known to be characteristically silly. Grohl and band mates have dressed in drag for several videos.

I still enjoy his music and admire his drive and independent attitude.

When he was young, Grohl was influenced by many punk bands and he carries the music's spirit with him today.

Now in his 40s, Grohl encourages younger musicians to follow their passion and emphasizes staying true to who you are.

He sends the message that people should make music they like, even if it's not the most popular sound, and never to let rejection deter them from their dreams.

"There is no right or wrong, there is only your voice," Grohl said during his keynote speech. "It doesn't matter. What matters most is that it's your voice. Cherish it. Respect it. Nurture it. Challenge it. Stretch it. Scream it until it's gone, because everyone is blessed with at least that, and who knows how long it will last."

It might be directed toward musicians, but the statement can be applied to anyone in many aspects of life.

I can't sing to save my life, but what I take from it is people should value and challenge themselves and be thankful for what they already have.

Berenice?Quirino?is a staff reporter for Lake County Publishing. She can be reached at 263-5636, ext. 36 or at bereniceq@record-bee.com.